The Nelson Downriver Race is intended for anyone interested in canoe or kayak racing - from novices to national champions. Our goal is to promote recreation, conservation and sportsmanship through paddling rivers and lakes in and around Nelson County, Virginia.The Nelson Area Paddlers

The Rock Turtle Chronicles
Formerly thought to have gone extinct millions of years ago, this photo conclusively proves that rock turtles have survived to present day. These creatures are rumored to feed on unwary canoeists and kayakers alike, consuming both the victims and their craft leaving no trace of the unfortunate event. Many close encounters have been reported like the one documented below.

Another Near Miss
Mike Watson frantically paddles the remaining forward half of his 17 ft. Penobscot in a successful escape.
The stern half is believed to have been devoured by a member of the species rockus turtelus (see photo above).

Despite public outcry to end the peril, naturalists are reluctant to take action against an endangered species.

Youthful Moxey
Dan Tucker shows gumption as the only youth solo canoeist in the race. Dan cleverly evades the rock turtle by strategically placing his boat on top of the beast.